Daily Weather Briefing for Tuesday, January 9, 2018

LOCAL OUTLOOK

An extended period of better moisture and gradually warmer temperatures will occur through the week. A deep low-pressure system developing over the central part of the country by mid-week will approach the western Carolinas and northeast Georgia Thursday through Friday. Heavier rain and even a few thunderstorms will be possible with the system on Friday. Cooler weather will spill back into the region over the weekend.



WEATHER SPONSOR

Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month. 

Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at:

https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/

All your masonry needs are available. Phone number is 828.524.8545, public is welcome, we’ll help with your with your next project.   

Weather Almanac for January 9th (1872-2016)

Record weather events for this date in Macon County

Highest Temperature 73°F at the Coweeta Experimental Station in 1890
Lowest Temperature -11°F at the Coweeta Experimental Station in 2014
Greatest Rainfall 3.10 inches in Highlands in 1946
Greatest One-Day Snowfall 4.0 inches in Highlands in 1988


Record weather events for January in Macon County

Highest Temperature 78°F at the Coweeta Experimental Station on Jan 28, 1999
Lowest Temperature -19°F in Highlands on Jan 21, 1985
Greatest Rainfall 4.30 inches in Nantahala on Jan 23, 1971
Greatest One-Day Snowfall 14.0 inches in Franklin on Jan 21, 1877



THREE DAY OUTLOOK



TODAY Possible Black Ice Early/Patchy Dense Fog

Possible patches of black ice this morning and areas of dense fog are possible. Partly sunny with highs ranging from the mid-40s to the lower 50s. Winds out of the south.

TONIGHT Rain/Fog

Patchy fog overnight, mostly cloudy with lows ranging from around freezing at the higher elevations to around 40 in the lower elevations and winds 5 to 10 mph out of the southeast.



WEDNESDAY AM Fog/Breezy

Patchy fog in the morning. Mostly cloudy skies with highs ranging from the mid-40s at the higher elevations to the lower 50s in the lower elevations. Winds 10 to 15 mph out of the southeast, gusting in the 30 mph range.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT Breezy and Rainy

Cloudy with lows ranging from the mid to upper 30s at the higher elevations to the mid-40s in the lower elevations. Winds 10 to 15 mph out of the southeast, gusting in the 30 mph range. 70% chance of rain, with the best chance after midnight.



THURSDAY Rainy

Cloudy with highs ranging from the upper 40s at the higher elevations to the mid-50s in the lower elevations. 70% chance of rain.

THURSDAY NIGHT Rainy

Cloudy with lows ranging from the low to mid-40s at the higher elevations to the upper 40s in the lower elevations. 70% chance of rain.




GOES-16 GeoColor multispectral IR Loop, covering 1:47 am to 3:42 am

HAZARDS

Areas of patchy dense fog are expected to form across the region this morning, so please turn on your headlights when commuting so other motorists can see you. Patches of black ice may form on area roadways this morning. The National Weather Service has issued a Special Weather Statement regarding this and it is posted below for your convenience.


***Special Weather Statement***
National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg SC
330 AM EST Tue Jan 9 2018


...PATCHY AREAS OF BLACK ICE POSSIBLE THROUGH EARLY THIS MORNING ACROSS NORTHEAST GEORGIA...WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA AND THE UPSTATE OF SC...

Though all precipitation has ended across the area, residual water on surfaces along with temperatures hovering around freezing and already cold ground temperatures will cause patchy areas of black ice to form on area roadways, bridges, sidewalks and parking lots overnight. Motorists should exercise caution through early Tuesday morning and take extra time to reach their destinations as they may encounter a few slick spots while traveling.

Macon Media maintains a Severe Weather Preparedness Page at http://thunderpigblog.blogspot.com/p/breaking-news-hub.html for those who are interested.

As always, you can check to see what advisories, watches, and warnings are in effect for Macon County by visiting http://is.gd/MACONWARN



GOES-16 ABI CONUS - 11.20 um (Rainfall)
Image Produced at 03:42 am



MACON CALENDAR

If you have an event you wish to be added to this calendar, please send the information, along with a flyer in pdf format or a high-quality photo, to editor@maconmedia.com. If you want text published, please include a paragraph with your photo, flyer or graphics. Please include date(s) and time(s).
There is no charge for civic, educational or nonprofit groups, except for groups or events that receive funding from the TDA, TDC, and EDC, where full rates apply.


National Alliance on Mental Illness
Appalachian South

Meets each Thursday at 7pm
The First Methodist Church Outreach Center
at the intersection of Harrison Ave. and West Main Street
(directly across from Lazy Hiker Brewery)

Come join our weekly support group for anyone suffering from mental illness and their family or friends. This includes Depression, Bipolar,8chizophrenia, PTSD, Substance Abuse, Etc.

Here you will find:
— others living with mental health challenges YOU ARE NOT ALONE
- learn coping skills and ?find hope in shared experience
- help learning how to break down stigma and guilt surrounding mental health
- how to live life with the expectation of a better a better future

Kay (706)970-9987 Denise (828)347-5000)

SYRINGE EXCHANGE PROGRAM

On January 1, 2017, the Syringe Exchange Program of Franklin began operating a comprehensive harm reduction program to address the opioid epidemic that is impacting western NC. Opioid overdose reversal kits including naloxone are available free of charge. If you have any questions about our services or if you know someone interested in volunteering, please contact Stephanie Almeida at 828-475-1920.



Sun and Moon


Sun

Begin civil twilight 7:15 a.m.
Sunrise 7:42 a.m.
Sun transit 12:41 p.m.
Sunset 5:39 p.m.
End civil twilight 6:07 p.m.


Moon

Moonrise 1:02 a.m.
Moon transit 7:00 a.m.
Moonset 12:53 p.m.


Phase of the Moon on January 9, 2018: Waning Crescent with 42% of the Moon's visible disk illuminated.
Closest Primary Moon Phase: Last Quarter on January 8, 2018 at 5:25 p.m. (local standard time)



Sky Guides for this week


Sky and Telescope Magazine 
Astronomy Magazine


There will be three solar and two lunar eclipses in 2018. [LINK]

Heavens Above has an Android App that will assist you in observing the sky and even has a satellite tracker that will let you know when the International Space Station and dozens of other satellites are overhead. [LINK]

Stellarium is also an app that will assist you in observing the sky. It is available in both Android [LINK] and iOS versions. [LINK]

CROWD FUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month.

If you have a business or event you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or underwriting coverage, send an email to editor@MaconMedia.com for more information. Serious inquiries only. Macon Media rewards early sponsors/underwriters with lifetime guaranteed low rates while newer sponsors/underwriters pay higher rates based on the date they first support Macon Media.

Thank You to the people who have been sending in donations and those businesses who are underwriting coverage of news and events. You have kept Macon Media online. You have made it possible for Macon Media to begin purchasing state of the art equipment and begin work on building a real website with features not employed by any local news outlets.

You can find out more information on how to do that and some of what I plan to accomplish if I reach certain levels of funding at https://www.patreon.com/MaconMedia



Posted at 4:08 am on January 9, 2018

#WNCscan #MaconWx #MaconSafety

Data and information sources: Sources (except where otherwise credited): heavens-above.com, Ian Webster's Github, National Centers for Environmental Prediction, The National Weather Service, National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration, Penn State University Electronic Wall Map, The State Climate Office of North Carolina, Storm Prediction Center, U.S. Naval Observatory, and the Weather Prediction Center. 

Read More

Daily Weather Briefing for Monday, January 8, 2018

CLOSINGS AND DELAYS

Macon County

Highlands District -- One hour delay

Jackson County

Blue Ridge District -- Schedule B
Smoky Mountain District -- Two-hour delay



LOCAL OUTLOOK

An upper-level system will track along the Gulf coast early in the week with a light wintry mix today before temperatures rise above freezing. Our weather will remain unsettled for much of the week until the next cold front passes next weekend.


DAY SPONSOR

Carrion Tree Service is underwriting the daily weather briefing and public safety updates for today. they are a fully licensed and insured tree service, specializing in dangerous tree removal, view clearing, pruning, and crane services with a 24 Hour emergency response.

Their phone number is 371-4718. They are located at 120 Depot Street.

They can handle all your tree removal needs in good or bad weather.


WEATHER SPONSOR

Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month. 

Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at:

https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/

All your masonry needs are available. Phone number is 828.524.8545, public is welcome, we’ll help with your with your next project.   

Weather Almanac for January 8th (1872-2016)

Record weather events for this date in Macon County

Highest Temperature 70°F in Franklin in 1890
Lowest Temperature -7°F in Highlands in 2014
Greatest Rainfall 2.83 inches in Highlands in 1946
Greatest One-Day Snowfall 10.5 inches at the Coweeta Experimental Station in 1988


Record weather events for January in Macon County

Highest Temperature 78°F at the Coweeta Experimental Station on Jan 28, 1999
Lowest Temperature -19°F in Highlands on Jan 21, 1985
Greatest Rainfall 4.30 inches in Nantahala on Jan 23, 1971
Greatest One-Day Snowfall 14.0 inches in Franklin on Jan 21, 1877


All-time record weather events for Macon County

Highest Temperature 101°F in Franklin on Jul 29, 1952
Lowest Temperature -19°F in Highlands on Jan 21, 1985
Greatest Rainfall 21.15 inches in Highlands on Jul 29, 1879
Greatest One-Day Snowfall 25.5 inches at the Coweeta Experimental Station on Mar 13, 1993




THREE DAY OUTLOOK



TODAY Possible Wintry Mix 5 am to 11 am then Rain

Lows starting out ranging from the lower 30s at the higher elevations to the mid-20s in the lower elevation due to a temperature inversion. Skies will be cloudy with highs near 40 at all elevations. Winds 5 to 10 mph out of the south, with gusts in the 20 to 30 mph range with the higher gusts at the higher elevations. 70% chance of precipitation by 11 am. A light wintry mix of rain, snow and sleet is expected to start sometime between 5 am and 9 am and transition over to all rain between 10 am and 11 am. Ice accumulations up to a tenth of an inch is possible before being washed away by the rain as temperatures climb above freezing in the late morning. Roads may briefly become hazardous for travel between 5 am and 11 am depending on how fast or slow the moisture can start reaching the ground.

TONIGHT Rain

Mostly cloudy with lows near 30 at all elevations and wind 5 to 10 mph out of the west. 50% chance of rain with rainfall accumulations between a tenth and a quarter of an inch.



TUESDAY

Partly sunny with highs ranging from the mid-40s at the higher elevations to the lower 50s in the lower elevations. Winds out of the northwest, shifting to come out of the south in the afternoon.

TUESDAY NIGHT

Mostly cloudy with lows ranging from the lower 30s at the higher elevations to the upper 30s in the lower elevations. Winds 5 to 10 mph out of the southeast.



WEDNESDAY

Mostly cloudy with highs ranging from the upper 40s at the higher elevations to the lower 50s in the lower elevations. 40% chance of rain.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT

Mostly cloudy with lows ranging from the upper 30s at the higher elevations to the lower 40s in the lower elevations. Rain chances increase from 40% at 6 pm to 70% after midnight.


GOES-16 Satellite Loop from 1:47 am to 3:42 am

HAZARDS

A wintry mix this morning may lead to hazardous road conditions sometime between 5 am and 11 am.

As of 3:30 am when this was being written, moisture is approaching from the southwest and is radar-indicated in Cherokee County, NC, but none of it is reaching the ground yet. It will reach the ground here in Macon County sometime after 5 am and before 9 am. The air is still pretty dry right now and will take a little while for the humidity levels to increase enough to allow the light freezing rain to reach the ground before evaporating. It will turn to all rain sometime between 9 and 11 am, after which, travel should become safer.

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory that will be in effect from 5 am to 1 pm tomorrow. The full text is posted below:

***Winter Weather Advisory***
URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg SC
251 PM EST Sun Jan 7 2018

...LIGHT FREEZING RAIN EVENT EXPECTED MONDAY MORNING...

.A strong upper level disturbance will move across the area tomorrow, allowing moisture to overspread the region. As precipitation starts falling Monday morning, it will likely be in the form of light freezing rain or drizzle. The cold wave over the past week has led to very cold roads and other surfaces, and even trace amounts of ice could lead to hazardous travel conditions.

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 5 AM TO 1 PM EST MONDAY...

* WHAT...Freezing rain or drizzle expected. The ice will result in very slippery conditions on sidewalks, roads and bridges, including during the morning commute on Monday. Total ice accumulations of a light glaze are expected.

* WHERE...Portions of Upstate South Carolina, northeast Georgia and the southwestern North Carolina mountains.

* WHEN...From 5 AM to 1 PM EST Monday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...The ice will result in difficult travel conditions, including during the morning commute on Monday. The freezing rain will change over to all rain during the afternoon.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Weather Advisory means that periods of freezing rain will cause travel difficulties. Be prepared for slippery roads. Slow down and use caution while driving.

Please report snow and ice accumulations by calling the National Weather Service toll free at...1...800...2 6 7...8 1 0 1. Leave a message with your observation and the specific location where it occurred. You can also post your report to National Weather Service Greenville Spartanburg Facebook or tweet your report using hashtag nwsgsp.

Stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio or your favorite source of weather information for the latest updates. Additional details can be found at www.weather.gov/gsp.



Macon Media maintains a Severe Weather Preparedness Page at http://thunderpigblog.blogspot.com/p/breaking-news-hub.html for those who are interested.

As always, you can check to see what advisories, watches, and warnings are in effect for Macon County by visiting http://is.gd/MACONWARN



GOES-16 ABI CONUS - 11.20 um (Rainfall)
Image Produced at 02:57 am and cropped to show our region



MACON CALENDAR

If you have an event you wish to be added to this calendar, please send the information, along with a flyer in pdf format or a high-quality photo, to editor@maconmedia.com. If you want text published, please include a paragraph with your photo, flyer or graphics. Please include date(s) and time(s).
There is no charge for civic, educational or nonprofit groups, except for groups or events that receive funding from the TDA, TDC, and EDC, where full rates apply.


National Alliance on Mental Illness
Appalachian South

Meets each Thursday at 7pm
The First Methodist Church Outreach Center
at the intersection of Harrison Ave. and West Main Street
(directly across from Lazy Hiker Brewery)

Come join our weekly support group for anyone suffering from mental illness and their family or friends. This includes Depression, Bipolar,8chizophrenia, PTSD, Substance Abuse, Etc.

Here you will find:
— others living with mental health challenges YOU ARE NOT ALONE
- learn coping skills and ?find hope in shared experience
- help learning how to break down stigma and guilt surrounding mental health
- how to live life with the expectation of a better a better future

Kay (706)970-9987 Denise (828)347-5000)

SYRINGE EXCHANGE PROGRAM

On January 1, 2017, the Syringe Exchange Program of Franklin began operating a comprehensive harm reduction program to address the opioid epidemic that is impacting western NC. Opioid overdose reversal kits including naloxone are available free of charge. If you have any questions about our services or if you know someone interested in volunteering, please contact Stephanie Almeida at 828-475-1920.



Sun and Moon


Sun

Begin civil twilight 7:15 a.m.
Sunrise 7:43 a.m.
Sun transit 12:40 p.m.
Sunset 5:38 p.m.
End civil twilight 6:06 p.m.

Moon


Moonrise 12:03 a.m.
Moon transit 6:15 a.m.
Moonset 12:20 p.m.


Phase of the Moon on January 8, 2018: Last Quarter at 5:25 p.m. (local standard time)



Sky Guides for this week


Sky and Telescope Magazine 
Astronomy Magazine


There will be three solar and two lunar eclipses in 2018. [LINK]

Heavens Above has an Android App that will assist you in observing the sky and even has a satellite tracker that will let you know when the International Space Station and dozens of other satellites are overhead. [LINK]

Stellarium is also an app that will assist you in observing the sky. It is available in both Android [LINK] and iOS versions. [LINK]

CROWD FUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month.

If you have a business or event you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or underwriting coverage, send an email to editor@MaconMedia.com for more information. Serious inquiries only. Macon Media rewards early sponsors/underwriters with lifetime guaranteed low rates while newer sponsors/underwriters pay higher rates based on the date they first support Macon Media.

Thank You to the people who have been sending in donations and those businesses who are underwriting coverage of news and events. You have kept Macon Media online. You have made it possible for Macon Media to begin purchasing state of the art equipment and begin work on building a real website with features not employed by any local news outlets.

You can find out more information on how to do that and some of what I plan to accomplish if I reach certain levels of funding at https://www.patreon.com/MaconMedia



Posted at 3:58 am on January 8, 2018

#WNCscan #MaconWx #MaconSafety

Data and information sources: Sources (except where otherwise credited): heavens-above.com, Ian Webster's Github, National Centers for Environmental Prediction, The National Weather Service, National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration, Penn State University Electronic Wall Map, The State Climate Office of North Carolina, Storm Prediction Center, U.S. Naval Observatory, and the Weather Prediction Center. 

Read More

Daily Weather Briefing for Sunday, January 7, 2018

LOCAL OUTLOOK

Cold and dry Canadian high pressure will drift off the mid Atlantic coast tonight, then a more southerly flow of air will eventually bring our region milder temperatures. A low-pressure system will approach Macon County Sunday night, which may bring a light wintry mix to the area early Monday. Temperatures will return to near normal by the middle of the week.


WEATHER SPONSOR

Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month. 

Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at:

https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/

All your masonry needs are available. Phone number is 828.524.8545, public is welcome, we’ll help with your with your next project.   

Weather Almanac for January 7th (1872-2016)

Record weather events for this date in Macon County

Highest Temperature 70°F in Franklin in 1890
Lowest Temperature -9°F in Highlands in 2014
Greatest Rainfall 3.11 inches in Highlands in 1946
Greatest One-Day Snowfall 8.0 inches in Franklin in 1988


Record weather events for January in Macon County

Highest Temperature 78°F at the Coweeta Experimental Station on Jan 28, 1999
Lowest Temperature -19°F in Highlands on Jan 21, 1985
Greatest Rainfall 4.30 inches in Nantahala on Jan 23, 1971
Greatest One-Day Snowfall 14.0 inches in Franklin on Jan 21, 1877


All-time record weather events for Macon County

Highest Temperature 101°F in Franklin on Jul 29, 1952
Lowest Temperature -19°F in Highlands on Jan 21, 1985
Greatest Rainfall 21.15 inches in Highlands on Jul 29, 1879
Greatest One-Day Snowfall 25.5 inches at the Coweeta Experimental Station on Mar 13, 1993




THREE DAY OUTLOOK



TODAY Cold Wave Ending/Outdoor Burning Not Recommended

Temperatures start out ranging from near zero at the higher elevations to the mid to upper single digits in the lower elevations. Skies will start out mostly sunny and will become mostly cloudy by 6 pm. Highs will range from the mid-20s at the higher elevations to the mid-30s in the lower elevations. Wind out of the south around 5 mph. Relative humidity levels will be below 30% between noon and 6 pm, so please put off outdoor burning.

TONIGHT Chance of Freezing Rain after Midnight/Roads may be Slick

Mostly cloudy with lows ranging from the teens at the higher elevations to the low to mid-20s in the lower elevations. Winds out of the south. Precipitation chances increase after midnight. Potential for freezing rain overnight. Be aware that travel may become hazardous. Due to the very dry conditions of the air, the start of the precipitation cannot be accurately forecasted. It may take several hours before the lower levels of the atmosphere become saturated.



MONDAY Chance of Wintry Mix before Noon/Rain After Noon

Cloudy with temperatures starting out below freezing. Cloudy skies with highs approaching freezing at the higher elevations and near 40 in the lower elevations. Winds 5 to 10 mph out of the south. 40% chance of precipitation. Freezing rain is possible before noon, then rain afterward. Roads may become hazardous for travel in the morning.

MONDAY NIGHT

Mostly cloudy with lows ranging from the mid-20s at the higher elevations to the mid-30s in the lower elevations. Winds out of the west around 5 mph. 40% chance of rain.



TUESDAY

Partly sunny with highs ranging from the mid-40s at the higher elevations to the mid-50s in the lower elevations. 40% chance of rain.

TUESDAY NIGHT

Mostly cloudy with lows ranging from near 30 at the higher elevations to the upper 30s in the lower elevations.

HAZARDS

Today is the last day of the cold wave!!!

There is the possibility of a Freezing Rain Event after midnight Sunday night into early Monday. Accumulations are expected to be less than a tenth of an inch and travel may become hazardous. Before you head out Monday morning, check the local forecasts and if there are reports of accidents due to slick roadways.


NWS Hazardous Weather Outlook


..TODAY...Cold wave likely.

..MONDAY...Winter weather possible. Precipitation that develops during the pre-dawn hours will likely start as a wintry mix of sleet and/or freezing rain before transitioning to all rain by midday Monday. Ice accumulations should be light, though hazardous road conditions may develop across the region early Monday morning.

Macon Media maintains a Severe Weather Preparedness Page at http://thunderpigblog.blogspot.com/p/breaking-news-hub.html for those who are interested.

As always, you can check to see what advisories, watches, and warnings are in effect for Macon County by visiting http://is.gd/MACONWARN



GOES-16 ABI CONUS - 11.20 um (Rainfall)
Image Produced at 02:37 am



MACON CALENDAR

If you have an event you wish to be added to this calendar, please send the information, along with a flyer in pdf format or a high-quality photo, to editor@maconmedia.com. If you want text published, please include a paragraph with your photo, flyer or graphics. Please include date(s) and time(s).
There is no charge for civic, educational or nonprofit groups, except for groups or events that receive funding from the TDA, TDC, and EDC, where full rates apply.


National Alliance on Mental Illness
Appalachian South

Meets each Thursday at 7pm
The First Methodist Church Outreach Center
at the intersection of Harrison Ave. and West Main Street
(directly across from Lazy Hiker Brewery)

Come join our weekly support group for anyone suffering from mental illness and their family or friends. This includes Depression, Bipolar,8chizophrenia, PTSD, Substance Abuse, Etc.

Here you will find:
— others living with mental health challenges YOU ARE NOT ALONE
- learn coping skills and ?find hope in shared experience
- help learning how to break down stigma and guilt surrounding mental health
- how to live life with the expectation of a better a better future

Kay (706)970-9987 Denise (828)347-5000)

SYRINGE EXCHANGE PROGRAM

On January 1, 2017, the Syringe Exchange Program of Franklin began operating a comprehensive harm reduction program to address the opioid epidemic that is impacting western NC. Opioid overdose reversal kits including naloxone are available free of charge. If you have any questions about our services or if you know someone interested in volunteering, please contact Stephanie Almeida at 828-475-1920.



Sun and Moon


Sun

Begin civil twilight 7:15 a.m.
Sunrise 7:43 a.m.
Sun transit 12:40 p.m.
Sunset 5:37 p.m.
End civil twilight 6:05 p.m.


Moon

Moonrise 11:02 p.m. last night
Moon transit 5:28 a.m.
Moonset 11:47 a.m.


Phase of the Moon on January 7, 2018: Waning Gibbous with 63% of the Moon's visible disk illuminated.
Closest Primary Moon Phase: Last Quarter on January 8, 2018 at 5:25 p.m. (local standard time)

Sky Guides for this week



Sky and Telescope Magazine 
Astronomy Magazine


There will be three solar and two lunar eclipses in 2018. [LINK]

Heavens Above has an Android App that will assist you in observing the sky and even has a satellite tracker that will let you know when the International Space Station and dozens of other satellites are overhead. [LINK]

Stellarium is also an app that will assist you in observing the sky. It is available in both Android [LINK] and iOS versions. [LINK]

CROWD FUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month.

If you have a business or event you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or underwriting coverage, send an email to editor@MaconMedia.com for more information. Serious inquiries only. Macon Media rewards early sponsors/underwriters with lifetime guaranteed low rates while newer sponsors/underwriters pay higher rates based on the date they first support Macon Media.

Thank You to the people who have been sending in donations and those businesses who are underwriting coverage of news and events. You have kept Macon Media online. You have made it possible for Macon Media to begin purchasing state of the art equipment and begin work on building a real website with features not employed by any local news outlets.

You can find out more information on how to do that and some of what I plan to accomplish if I reach certain levels of funding at https://www.patreon.com/MaconMedia



Posted at 2:53 am on January 7, 2018

#WNCscan #MaconWx #MaconSafety

Data and information sources: Sources (except where otherwise credited): heavens-above.com, Ian Webster's Github, National Centers for Environmental Prediction, The National Weather Service, National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration, Penn State University Electronic Wall Map, The State Climate Office of North Carolina, Storm Prediction Center, U.S. Naval Observatory, and the Weather Prediction Center. 

Read More

Daily Weather Briefing for Saturday, January 6, 2018

Cold Wave Safety Briefing (Cold Wave Ending!!!



The local National Weather Service has an excellent briefing on their website at http://www.weather.gov/media/gsp/YouTube/brief.pdf in PDF format.

In the coming week, this area will be experiencing a cold wave during which daytime temperatures will be close to 20 degrees below normal. Brisk northerly winds between 5 and 15 mph will combine with the very cold temperatures to produce dangerous wind chills through the week, especially across the higher elevations. Wind chills will drop to 5 to 15 degrees below zero across the higher elevations, near zero to 10 above zero in the lower elevations during the night through much of the week.

Very low relative humidity will increase the fire danger, especially on Tuesday. Please do not burn debris, brush piles or clear fields this week. Put those tasks off for a later time.

When venturing outside, remember to wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing. Wear a hat because much of your body heat can be lost from your head. Mittens, snug at the wrist, are better than gloves. Lastly, stay dry and out of the wind if possible.

Consider bringing any pets indoors and check on neighbors, elderly, and homeless. Take the necessary precautions to protect water pipes from the extreme cold.

LOCAL OUTLOOK

Cold and dry Canadian high pressure will build into our region, eventually drifting off the East Coast Sunday. A low-pressure system will approach the Southeast states Sunday night, which may bring a light wintry mix to the area early Monday. However, temperatures will return to near normal by the middle of next week.



WEATHER SPONSOR

Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month. 

Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at:

https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/

All your masonry needs are available. Phone number is 828.524.8545, public is welcome, we’ll help with your with your next project.   

Weather Almanac for January 6th (1872-2016)

Record weather events for this date in Macon County

Highest Temperature 70°F at the Coweeta Experimental Station in 2005
Lowest Temperature -7°F in Highlands in 1924
Greatest Rainfall 3.89 inches in Highlands in 1946
Greatest One-Day Snowfall 5.0 inches in Highlands in 1996


Record weather events for January in Macon County

Highest Temperature 78°F at the Coweeta Experimental Station on Jan 28, 1999
Lowest Temperature -19°F in Highlands on Jan 21, 1985
Greatest Rainfall 4.30 inches in Nantahala on Jan 23, 1971
Greatest One-Day Snowfall 14.0 inches in Franklin on Jan 21, 1877


All-time record weather events for Macon County

Highest Temperature 101°F in Franklin on Jul 29, 1952
Lowest Temperature -19°F in Highlands on Jan 21, 1985
Greatest Rainfall 21.15 inches in Highlands on Jul 29, 1879
Greatest One-Day Snowfall 25.5 inches at the Coweeta Experimental Station on Mar 13, 1993




THREE DAY OUTLOOK



TODAY Cold Wave/Breezy/Outdoor Burning Not Recommended

Sunny with highs in ranging from the lower 20s in the higher elevations to the upper 20s in the lower elevations with wind chills around 5 degrees colder. Winds 5 to 10 mph out of the north. Relative humidity values will be below 30% from around 11 am to 10 pm. That, and with the breezy conditions result in a dangerous environment for outdoor burning. Please put that off until sometime next week.

TONIGHT Cold Wave Continues...Dangerous Wind Chill Values

Clear skies with lows ranging from near zero in the higher elevations to around 12 in the lower elevations. Winds around 5 mph from the north.



SUNDAY Cold Wave Dies

Mostly sunny with increasing clouds. Highs ranging from the mid to upper 20s in the higher elevations to the mid-30s in the lower elevations. Winds shifting around to come out of the south as the Arctic high pressure that has been responsible for this last Arctic Surge moves off to our northeast. Temperatures will begin to return to normal levels over the next few days.

SUNDAY NIGHT Wintry mix after midnight

Mostly cloudy with lows ranging from the mid-teens at the higher elevations to the mid-20s in the lower elevations. Winds 5 to 10 mph out of the south. 50% chance of precipitation, mostly a mix of rain,freezing, rain, sleet and snow. It may take a few hours for the precipitation to work its way down to the lower levels of the atmosphere without being evaporated by the dry air. Accumulations less than a tenth of an inch of ice and sleet.



MONDAY Dicey Road Conditions Until Temperatures Warm

Cloudy with temperatures starting out below freezing everywhere, then warming above freezing around 10 or 11 am, depending on altitude. Highs ranging from near freezing at the higher elevations and mountain passes and near 40 in the lower elevations. Near 100% chance of precipitation. A wintry mix will fall before 10 or 11 am and rain afterward. Roads may be hazardous for travel early on Monday.

MONDAY NIGHT Freezing Rain and Possible Hazardous Driving Conditions After Midnight

Mostly cloudy with lows ranging from the mid to upper 20s at the higher elevation to the lower 30s in the lower elevations. Near 100% chance of precipitation. A wintry mix after midnight may be possible.

HAZARDS

Before we get into the cold wave information, there is the possibility of a Freezing Rain Event after midnight Sunday night into early Monday. Accumulations are expected to be less than a tenth of an inch and travel may become hazardous. Before you head out Monday morning, check the local forecasts and if there are reports of accidents due to slick roadways.

We are in a cold wave in Macon County. Until tomorrow afternoon, temperatures will be at or below freezing for an extended period of time and wind chills will be below zero overnights and in the mornings. If you have elderly family, friends and neighbors, please check on them to make sure they are doing okay. Keep some extra blankets, flashlights, water, and food in your automobile.

We are under a wind chill advisory until 11 am today.



NWS Hazardous Weather Outlook

..TODAY...Cold wave likely. Dangerously cold wind chills are possible during the early morning hours. Dry air may also increase fire danger during the afternoon.

..SUNDAY...Cold wave likely.

..MONDAY...Winter weather possible. Moisture will increase atop the region Sunday night, as a cold high slowly retreats to the east. As precipitation develops during the pre-dawn hours, it will likely start as a wintry mix of snow, sleet and/or freezing rain before transitioning to all rain by midday Monday. Snow and ice accumulations should be light, but some areas may have hazardous road conditions early Monday.


Macon Media maintains a Severe Weather Preparedness Page at http://thunderpigblog.blogspot.com/p/breaking-news-hub.html for those who are interested.

As always, you can check to see what advisories, watches, and warnings are in effect for Macon County by visiting http://is.gd/MACONWARN



GOES-16 ABI CONUS - 11.20 um (Rainfall)
Image Produced at 03:02 am



MACON CALENDAR

If you have an event you wish to be added to this calendar, please send the information, along with a flyer in pdf format or a high-quality photo, to editor@maconmedia.com. If you want text published, please include a paragraph with your photo, flyer or graphics. Please include date(s) and time(s).
There is no charge for civic, educational or nonprofit groups, except for groups or events that receive funding from the TDA, TDC, and EDC, where full rates apply.


National Alliance on Mental Illness
Appalachian South

Meets each Thursday at 7pm
The First Methodist Church Outreach Center
at the intersection of Harrison Ave. and West Main Street
(directly across from Lazy Hiker Brewery)

Come join our weekly support group for anyone suffering from mental illness and their family or friends. This includes Depression, Bipolar,8chizophrenia, PTSD, Substance Abuse, Etc.

Here you will find:
— others living with mental health challenges YOU ARE NOT ALONE
- learn coping skills and ?find hope in shared experience
- help learning how to break down stigma and guilt surrounding mental health
- how to live life with the expectation of a better a better future

Kay (706)970-9987 Denise (828)347-5000)

SYRINGE EXCHANGE PROGRAM

On January 1, 2017, the Syringe Exchange Program of Franklin began operating a comprehensive harm reduction program to address the opioid epidemic that is impacting western NC. Opioid overdose reversal kits including naloxone are available free of charge. If you have any questions about our services or if you know someone interested in volunteering, please contact Stephanie Almeida at 828-475-1920.



Sun and Moon


Sun

Begin civil twilight 7:15 a.m.
Sunrise 7:43 a.m.
Sun transit 12:39 p.m.
Sunset 5:37 p.m.
End civil twilight 6:04 p.m.


Moon

Moonrise 9:58 p.m. last night
Moon transit 4:38 a.m.
Moonset 11:11 a.m.
Moonrise 11:02 p.m.


Phase of the Moon on January 6, 2018: Waning Gibbous with 73% of the Moon's visible disk illuminated.
Closest Primary Moon Phase: Last Quarter on January 8, 2018 at 5:25 p.m. (local standard time)

Sky Guides for this week



Sky and Telescope Magazine 
Astronomy Magazine


There will be three solar and two lunar eclipses in 2018. [LINK]

Heavens Above has an Android App that will assist you in observing the sky and even has a satellite tracker that will let you know when the International Space Station and dozens of other satellites are overhead. [LINK]

Stellarium is also an app that will assist you in observing the sky. It is available in both Android [LINK] and iOS versions. [LINK]

CROWD FUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month.

If you have a business or event you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or underwriting coverage, send an email to editor@MaconMedia.com for more information. Serious inquiries only. Macon Media rewards early sponsors/underwriters with lifetime guaranteed low rates while newer sponsors/underwriters pay higher rates based on the date they first support Macon Media.

Thank You to the people who have been sending in donations and those businesses who are underwriting coverage of news and events. You have kept Macon Media online. You have made it possible for Macon Media to begin purchasing state of the art equipment and begin work on building a real website with features not employed by any local news outlets.

You can find out more information on how to do that and some of what I plan to accomplish if I reach certain levels of funding at https://www.patreon.com/MaconMedia



Posted at 3:15 am on January 6, 2018

#WNCscan #MaconWx #MaconSafety

Data and information sources: Sources (except where otherwise credited): heavens-above.com, Ian Webster's Github, National Centers for Environmental Prediction, The National Weather Service, National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration, Penn State University Electronic Wall Map, The State Climate Office of North Carolina, Storm Prediction Center, U.S. Naval Observatory, and the Weather Prediction Center. 

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NCDOT Now for January 5, 2018 Winter Weather Q & A

RALEIGH – The following are highlights from this week at the N.C. Department of Transportation. The stories below are also featured in NCDOT Now, the department's weekly newscast.

Winter Weather Q&A

North Carolina experienced its first big winter storm of the season this week. During these events, we receive a lot of questions about how the NCDOT prepares for and responds to winter storms. We thought this would be an opportunity to answer some of those questions.

Why Does NCDOT Sometimes not Pre-treat the Roads?

Our crews often treat roads with a salt and water mixture called brine that helps prevent ice from forming on the roads at the beginning of the storm.

To be most effective, the brine must be applied on dry roads when the temperature is above 18 degrees. So, if the forecast calls for an event to begin as all rain, the crews won’t pre-treat because the brine would be washed away. Interestingly, brine is about half the cost of rock salt.

When Will my Road be Cleared?

DOT is responsible for more than 163,800 lane miles of roads, so it must prioritize which roads to target first. Interstates and U.S. routes are cleared first because they are essential for connectivity.

Once those roads are clear, crews shift to N.C. routes, then lower-volume primary routes, secondary roads then subdivisions.

Why Did a Snowplow Drive by my House With its Plow Up?

Drivers have specific routes they are assigned, so the driver was likely on the way to that route or back to the maintenance yard to replenish salt supplies.

Can I Get Home?/How Do I Get Home?

The best way to get information about specific road conditions is to go to DriveNC.gov. There you can search by route, region or county. You can also view traffic cameras and find links to other important information.

What is Black Ice and How do You Treat It?

Black ice is snow or ice that has melted and refrozen into thin layers. Because it looks like a wet spot on the road, it appears black like the pavement. To treat it, the department applies rock salt to aid in melting. Sand is sometimes added to help increase traction and break down the ice.

NCDOT does its best to treat areas it knows are prone to black ice, but because it is in isolated spots and forms quickly, it’s not possible to treat every spot. The best way to avoid black ice is to stay off roads unless you absolutely must go out. If you do, drive slowly and leave plenty of space between vehicles in front of you.

Winter Weather Safety Tips

Leaving space between vehicles is good advice anytime we have inclement weather. Below are some additional important safety tips to keep you and your family safe.

Staying off the roads during snow and ice is the best option, but if you must travel:

•Slow down. Speed is the primary cause of wrecks in winter weather;
•Approach bridges and overpasses with extreme caution as they become icy first. Don’t apply your brakes while on a bridge;
•Treat intersections where traffic signals are out as a four-way stop;
•Stay at least 200 feet behind active plows. This also allows them to do their job; and
•Drive smoothly without sudden accelerating, braking or turning.
•You can find additional advice on weather preparation by downloading the state’s Ready NC app or going to ReadyNC.org. For real time traffic updates and road closures, visit DriveNC.gov.

WEATHER SPONSOR

Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month. 

Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at:

https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/

All your masonry needs are available. Phone number is 828.524.8545, public is welcome, we’ll help with your with your next project.   

CROWD FUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month.

If you have a business or event you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or underwriting coverage, send an email to editor@MaconMedia.com for more information. 

Serious inquiries only. Macon Media rewards early sponsors/underwriters with lifetime guaranteed low rates while newer sponsors/underwriters pay higher rates based on the date they first support Macon Media.

Thank You to the people who have been sending in donations and those businesses who are underwriting coverage of news and events. You have kept Macon Media online. 

You can find out more information on how to do that and some of what I plan to accomplish if I reach certain levels of funding at https://www.patreon.com/MaconMedia

Published at 12:05 pm am on January 5, 2018

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Daily Weather Briefing for Friday, January 5, 2018

LOCAL KMART ON LIST OF STORES TO BE CLOSED

Sears Holdings has announced the local Kmart at 395 Westgate Plaza is on the list of stores to be closed. The time frame given was late April. Liquidation sales may begin as early as Jan 12th.



From the Sears Holdings website:

"Sears Holdings continues its strategic assessment of the productivity of our Kmart and Sears store base and will continue to right size our store footprint in number and size. In the process, as previously announced we will continue to close some unprofitable stores as we transform our business model so that our physical store footprint and our digital capabilities match the needs and preferences of our members.

The company on Thursday, January 4 informed associates at 64 Kmart stores and 39 Sears stores that we will be closing these stores between early March and early April 2018.

Eligible associates impacted by these store closures will receive severance and will have the opportunity to apply for open positions at area Kmart or Sears stores. Customers can use the store locator function on our web sites to find the location of their nearest Kmart and Sears stores. Liquidation sales will begin as early as January 12 at these closing stores. Following is a complete list of the impacted stores."

See the list of store closings at
http://searsholdings.com/docs/010418-store-closing-list.pdf



Cold Wave Safety Briefing



The local National Weather Service has an excellent briefing on their website at http://www.weather.gov/media/gsp/YouTube/brief.pdf in PDF format.

In the coming week, this area will be experiencing a cold wave during which daytime temperatures will be close to 20 degrees below normal. Brisk northerly winds between 5 and 15 mph will combine with the very cold temperatures to produce dangerous wind chills through the week, especially across the higher elevations. Wind chills will drop to 5 to 15 degrees below zero across the higher elevations, near zero to 10 above zero in the lower elevations during the night through much of the week.

Very low relative humidity will increase the fire danger, especially on Tuesday. Please do not burn debris, brush piles or clear fields this week. Put those tasks off for a later time.

When venturing outside, remember to wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing. Wear a hat because much of your body heat can be lost from your head. Mittens, snug at the wrist, are better than gloves. Lastly, stay dry and out of the wind if possible.

Consider bringing any pets indoors and check on neighbors, elderly, and homeless. Take the necessary precautions to protect water pipes from the extreme cold.

LOCAL OUTLOOK

A cold and dry Canadian high pressure will build into our region today and will persist through the weekend, keeping temperatures well below normal. A low-pressure system will approach the Southeast U.S. on Monday bringing a chance of light wintry precipitation to the region beginning early Monday morning. However, temperatures will warm to above freezing later Monday and will return to near normal by mid-week.



WEATHER SPONSOR

Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month. 

Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at:

https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/

All your masonry needs are available. Phone number is 828.524.8545, public is welcome, we’ll help with your with your next project.   

Weather Almanac for January 5th (1872-2016)

Record weather events for this date in Macon County

Highest Temperature 74°F in Franklin in 1955
Lowest Temperature -6°F in Highlands in 1920
Greatest Rainfall 4.28 inches in Highlands in 1949
Greatest One-Day Snowfall 2.5 inches in Nantahala in 1940


Record weather events for January in Macon County

Highest Temperature 78°F at the Coweeta Experimental Station on Jan 28, 1999
Lowest Temperature -19°F in Highlands on Jan 21, 1985
Greatest Rainfall 4.30 inches in Nantahala on Jan 23, 1971
Greatest One-Day Snowfall 14.0 inches in Franklin on Jan 21, 1877


All-time record weather events for Macon County

Highest Temperature 101°F in Franklin on Jul 29, 1952
Lowest Temperature -19°F in Highlands on Jan 21, 1985
Greatest Rainfall 21.15 inches in Highlands on Jul 29, 1879
Greatest One-Day Snowfall 25.5 inches at the Coweeta Experimental Station on Mar 13, 1993




THREE DAY OUTLOOK



TODAY Cold Wave/Very Windy/Dangerous Wind Chills/Outdoor Burning Not Recommended

Wind chill values will start out from around 12 below zero in the higher elevations to just below zero in the lower elevations. Skies will be partly sunny with decreasing clouds. Highs will range from the teens at the higher elevations to the mid-20s in the lower elevations. Wind chill values will range from near zero at the higher elevations to the teens or lower in the lower elevations. Winds will be 10 to 15 mph out of the northwest with gusts in the 30 mph range.

TONIGHT Cold Wave Continues...Dangerous Wind Chill Values

Mostly clear with lows ranging from near zero at the higher elevations to around 10 degrees above zero in the lower elevations. Wind chill values will range from ten below at the higher elevations to around zero in the lower elevations. Winds 10 to 15 mph out of the northwest.



SATURDAY Cold Wave/Dangerous Wind Chills/Outdoor burning not recommended

Wind chills in the morning will range from the single digits below zero at the higher elevations to the single digits above in the lower elevations. Skies will be sunny with highs ranging from the lower 20s at the higher elevations to around 30 in the lower elevations. Wind chill values will be about 5 degrees or so colder. Winds 5 to 10 mph out of the northwest.

Low Relative Humidity and Increased Fire Danger

The relative humidity (RH or amount of moisture in the air) will be dropping to dangerously low values today. The RH is expected to drop below 30% around 11 am and below 20% by 1 pm. It won't rise above 20% until around 6 pm and above 30% until around 9 pm. Any outdoor fire that gets out of control will be in danger of finding drier fuels that will enable faster spreading, so please continue to put off outdoor burning until after the rain event early next week.

SATURDAY NIGHT Cold Wave Continues

Mostly clear with lows ranging from near zero at the higher elevations to around ten or so in the lower elevations. Winds will be diminishing and shifting from the northwest to the northeat at only around 5 mph or so.



SUNDAY The Cold Wave is Ending !!!

Mostly sunny with increasing clouds. Highs ranging from the mid-20s at the higher elevations to the mid-30s in the lower elevations.

SUNDAY NIGHT Freezing Rain and Possible Hazardous Driving Conditions After Midnight

Mostly cloudy with lows ranging from the upper teens at the higher elevations to the mid-30s in the lower elevations. 50% chance of precipitation, mainly after midnight, which is expected to be mostly freezing rain. Ice accumulations should be less than a tenth of an inch. Driving may get hazardous before it turns to all rain around 11 am Monday.

HAZARDS

Before we get into the cold wave information, there is the possibility of a Freezing Rain Event after midnight Sunday night into early Monday. Accumulations are expected to be less than a tenth of an inch and travel may become hazardous. Before you head out Monday morning, check the local forecasts and if there are reports of accidents due to slick roadways.

We are in a cold wave in Macon County. Over the next week, temperatures will be at or below freezing for an extended period of time and wind chills will be below zero overnights and in the mornings. If you have elderly family, friends, and neighbors, please check on them to make sure they are doing okay. Keep some extra blankets, flashlights, water, and food in your automobile.

The cold wave is expected to last most of the week and there is a slight possibility we may see a light rain/snow/ice mix at the end of it in the late Sunday Monday time frame. Temperatures next week will probably only be 10 degrees below normal as opposed to our current 20 degrees below normal. Temperature be above freezing by the time the moisture arrives in our area if it is slower than forecast.

The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Chill Advisory until noon today. The information is posted below:


***Wind Chill Advisory**
URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg SC
1047 PM EST Thu Jan 4 2018

...BITTER WIND CHILLS TO IMPACT THE SOUTHERN APPALACHIANS AND WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA TONIGHT AND FRIDAY MORNING...

.Strong northwesterly winds will continue tonight along with very cold overnight temperatures, leading to the need for this advisory primarily for higher elevations and along the I-40 corridor in North Carolina.


...WIND CHILL ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL NOON EST FRIDAY...

* WHAT...Very cold wind chills expected. Expect wind chills to range from 5 below zero to 15 below zero. Windy conditions are expected as well, with northwest winds of 15 to 25 mph expected, along with occasional gusts of 30 to 40 mph.

* WHERE...Much of the mountains of western North Carolina.

* WHEN...Through noon EST Friday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...The cold wind chills may cause frostbite to exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. The gusty winds may blow around loose objects and cause isolated power outages.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Wind Chill Advisory means that cold air and the wind will combine to create low wind chills. Frost bite and hypothermia can occur if precautions are not taken. Make sure you wear a hat and gloves.

NWS Hazardous Weather Outlook

..TODAY...Cold wave likely. Dangerously cold wind chills are expected during the early morning hours.

..SATURDAY...Cold wave likely. Dangerously cold wind chills are possible during the early morning hours. Dry air may also increase fire danger during the afternoon.

..SUNDAY...Cold wave likely.

..MONDAY...Winter weather possible. Moisture will increase atop the region Sunday night, as a cold high slowly retreats to the east. As precipitation develops during the pre-dawn hours, it will likely start as a wintry mix of snow, sleet and/or freezing rain before transitioning to all rain by midday Monday. Snow and ice accumulations should be light, but some areas may have hazardous road conditions early Monday.


Macon Media maintains a Severe Weather Preparedness Page at http://thunderpigblog.blogspot.com/p/breaking-news-hub.html for those who are interested.

As always, you can check to see what advisories, watches, and warnings are in effect for Macon County by visiting http://is.gd/MACONWARN



GOES-16 ABI CONUS - 11.20 um (Rainfall)
Image Produced at 03:27 am



MACON CALENDAR

If you have an event you wish to be added to this calendar, please send the information, along with a flyer in pdf format or a high-quality photo, to editor@maconmedia.com. If you want text published, please include a paragraph with your photo, flyer or graphics. Please include date(s) and time(s).
There is no charge for civic, educational or nonprofit groups, except for groups or events that receive funding from the TDA, TDC, and EDC, where full rates apply.


National Alliance on Mental Illness
Appalachian South

Meets each Thursday at 7pm
The First Methodist Church Outreach Center
at the intersection of Harrison Ave. and West Main Street
(directly across from Lazy Hiker Brewery)

Come join our weekly support group for anyone suffering from mental illness and their family or friends. This includes Depression, Bipolar,8chizophrenia, PTSD, Substance Abuse, Etc.

Here you will find:
— others living with mental health challenges YOU ARE NOT ALONE
- learn coping skills and ?find hope in shared experience
- help learning how to break down stigma and guilt surrounding mental health
- how to live life with the expectation of a better a better future

Kay (706)970-9987 Denise (828)347-5000)

SYRINGE EXCHANGE PROGRAM

On January 1, 2017, the Syringe Exchange Program of Franklin began operating a comprehensive harm reduction program to address the opioid epidemic that is impacting western NC. Opioid overdose reversal kits including naloxone are available free of charge. If you have any questions about our services or if you know someone interested in volunteering, please contact Stephanie Almeida at 828-475-1920.



Sun and Moon


Sun

Begin civil twilight 7:14 a.m.
Sunrise 7:42 a.m.
Sun transit 12:39 p.m.
Sunset 5:36 p.m.
End civil twilight 6:04 p.m.


Moon

Moonrise 8:51 p.m. last night
Moon transit 3:46 a.m.
Moonset 10:33 a.m.
Moonrise 9:58 p.m.


Phase of the Moon on January 5, 2018: Waning Gibbous with 82% of the Moon's visible disk illuminated.
Closest Primary Moon Phase: Last Quarter on January 8, 2018 at 5:25 p.m. (local standard time)

Sky Guides for this week



Sky and Telescope Magazine 
Astronomy Magazine


There will be three solar and two lunar eclipses in 2018. [LINK]

Heavens Above has an Android App that will assist you in observing the sky and even has a satellite tracker that will let you know when the International Space Station and dozens of other satellites are overhead. [LINK]

Stellarium is also an app that will assist you in observing the sky. It is available in both Android [LINK] and iOS versions. [LINK]

CROWD FUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month.

If you have a business or event you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or underwriting coverage, send an email to editor@MaconMedia.com for more information. Serious inquiries only. Macon Media rewards early sponsors/underwriters with lifetime guaranteed low rates while newer sponsors/underwriters pay higher rates based on the date they first support Macon Media.

Thank You to the people who have been sending in donations and those businesses who are underwriting coverage of news and events. You have kept Macon Media online. You have made it possible for Macon Media to begin purchasing state of the art equipment and begin work on building a real website with features not employed by any local news outlets.

You can find out more information on how to do that and some of what I plan to accomplish if I reach certain levels of funding at https://www.patreon.com/MaconMedia



Posted at 4:00 am on January 5, 2018

#WNCscan #MaconWx #MaconSafety

Data and information sources: Sources (except where otherwise credited): heavens-above.com, Ian Webster's Github, National Centers for Environmental Prediction, The National Weather Service, National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration, Penn State University Electronic Wall Map, The State Climate Office of North Carolina, Storm Prediction Center, U.S. Naval Observatory, and the Weather Prediction Center. 

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